Train lovers – get excited! The Holiday Express Christmas train is coming back to Wylie, Texas. This seasonal train usually only comes to town every other year, but it’s coming back for 2024. If you’ve never been before, here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit to this very popular attraction!
What is the Holiday Express Christmas train?
Allll aboard the CPKC Holiday Express! The Holiday Express Christmas train makes the rounds every December, stopping at different cities across the United States. The Holiday Express is covered in lights and full of Christmas decorations, and Santa even comes along for the ride!
Everyone who attends gets to walk through the train and see all the decorations. If you arrive early enough, you can even see the train pull into Wylie!
When is the Holiday Express Christmas train coming to Wylie?
The CPKC Holiday Express Christmas train returns to Wylie on Monday, December 9th, 2024, from 4-8PM.
Where in Wylie is the Christmas train?
You will find the train along the railway track at North Keefer Street, between West Oak Street & West Marble Street (nearest address is 107 N Keefer Street).
Can I watch the Holiday train arrive in Wylie?
Yep! You just need to get there early to see it arrive. Last year, the train arrived several hours early.
Is the Holiday Express Train free?
Yes – admission to this fun event is free! You’ll want to bring some money if you plan on eating while you’re there (or grabbing a drink later downtown).
Is it crowded at the Christmas train?
Yes. People come from all over North Texas, and even other states, to see the Holiday Express. The line can be long, and people start lining up early. If you want to get done quickly, I recommend getting there early to line up.
The line moves right along once it opens. This year, please be aware that the CPKC Holiday Express event is from 4 to 8 p.m. As 8 p.m. approaches, the line may be cut.
Where should I park for the Holiday Express?
Parking can be tricky if you arrive later in the evening. If you get there early, you should be able to easily find a spot in the downtown area. Everything is within easy walking distance. You may have to park a little farther away if you arrive later (don’t worry, it is still all very walkable). People with small children often arrive early and will be leaving early, too…so you should be able to find a spot when you arrive (just be prepared to walk some).
The other option is to come towards the end of the event, when people are starting to leave.
Is there food at the Christmas Train?
Yes, there will be food available near the line for the train. You can also visit any of the restaurants downtown.
Landon, Glen Echo Brewery, and Herman Marshall Whiskey are also open if you’re looking for an adult beverage before or after the event.
What is it like inside the Christmas train?
You will be able to walk through several cars on the train. Each car is decorated for the holidays, and full of fun Christmas train decor! If you like real trains and model trains, you’ll love this exhibit, as many of the cars include elaborate miniature railroads.
Is Santa at the Holiday Train?
Yes, you can visit Santa after your walk through the train.
Pro Tips for your Holiday Express Christmas Train Experience in Wylie, Texas
Here are some tips for making the most of your experience at the Christmas train:
- Get there early! If you get there early enough, you will not only have a better parking experience, but you’ll also be able to get on the train sooner. The downside to early arrival is that you won’t see the train all lit up, unless you stay until it’s dark.
- The train arrives several hours before the event starts if you want to see it arrive (sorry, we do not have an exact arrival time at this moment).
- Sometimes the weather is nice. Sometimes it’s cold! Bring a jacket.
- Check out local businesses for specials and fun activities. Not only will this give you a chance to shop local, but you’ll also get to check out some of Wylie’s most popular shops!
- Bring cash for food and hot chocolate (vendors will also accept credit cards, but sometimes there’s a cash line and it’s quicker).
- If you have little kids, you might want to bring a stroller as there can be some walking and a lot of standing while you wait.
